"There has been a veritable explosion of Klezmer music-making (much of it in the frorm of jam sessions) in the last ten years. Groups such as the Klezmatics and Klezmer Conservatory Band, among others, have helped popularise a genre that is essentially East European Jewish celeratory music. It appeals on many levels- passion, infectious swing and spirituality resonate viscerally as well as emotionally, and indeed , the klezmer pot contains ,any familiar ingredients: Eastern European folk tunes, gypsy music, jazz and swing.. So it is that large numbers of jazz, folk and classical musicians have taken to the semi--improvisatory world of bulgars, horas and freilachs. Formed in 1999, Klezmania are a trio consisting of Chris Haigh (vln), Philip Clouts (pno) and Alex Keen (bs). They bring a definite jazz sensibility to such traditional tunes as Tanz, Tanz, Yidelech, Der Shtiler Bulgar and Kandel's Hora. Sunrise, Sunset even features an Afro-Cuban montuno interlude. Chris Haigh is a fluent player whose playing shows tremendous verve, playfulness and creativity. Clouts comps solidly, and Keen swings with a thick, muscular sound, whether "oom-cha"-ing or playing four to the bar The CD is well recorded by Gareth Huw-Davies." -Rob Levy, MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

From a 60th birthday party:

"Thanks again for yesterday. You and your band were great. My friends loved the music. I think a number of them spoke to you, and said how much they loved it. The music really made the evening. You cannot listen to it and not be uplifted."

From a recent Bar Mitzvah:

"Hi Chris, You guys were so great yesterday!! Lots of people commented to me how much they enjoyed the music. So many, many thanks, and thanks also for coming all this way! Best wishes, Avra "(Cambridge)

From a recent Wedding: "Dear Chris, We all loved you. You were the first 'item' of the wedding that I booked after the venue and I knew right from the start that you would do the business just as I wanted. Many, many thanks. Please feel free to give us as a reference for future bookings. Lynette" (London)

From a wedding in Scotland: "Dear Chris Just a quick note to say THANK YOU so much from Lorna and me and our families for your superb playing on our big day. The music was fantastic - so much so that people just couldn't stop dancing! We were absolutely delighted! I hope you also enjoyed the day and that your trip back to London was OK. We had a honeymoon in New York and are now back in Peru, starting to tackle all the post-nuptial administrative duties. Please pass along our thanks to the rest of the band - you helped make the festivities perfect. Cheers, and all the very best Hal and Lorna"

From another Bar Mitzvah: "Just to say that you were all fantastic! Thanks for making it a special evening! Lilias"

From a Bat Mitzvah: "We wanted to thank you and your band so much for your wonderful playing at the Liberal Jewish Synagogue. It was perfect. Thank you very much. Julie and Adam"

From a recent Wedding: "Dear Chris We wanted to say a big thank you for all you did to make our wedding celebrations so enjoyable. The music you played throughout the day was excellent and we received very positive feedback from our guests who were amazed by your skill and versatility. The Irish-Israeli music, in particular, was a big hitwith our families and it proved to be a great ice-breaker! Please pass on our sincere thanks to everyone who joined you on the day. best wishes Dermot and Emma"

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Here are some comments from Village Hall promoters on our recent East Midlands tour:

Chris Stewart- Ravenshead Village Hall; " Covering the whole spectrum of emotions in a way that was wonderfully unrestricted, I found the music uplifting, melancholy, haunting and passionate. Their musical performance was truly impressive. Relevant stories and a touch of humour created a personal touch that flowed with easy style Klezmania created an air of festivity and celebration Totally professional and seemed easy-going... obviously had rapport with the audience"

Christine Matthewman, Stubton Village Hall ; "This was a wonderful show and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the performance W.Cope, Frampton Village Hall Lively, compelling, vibrant music- wonderful talent. Friendly, professional performers"

A.Scott, Sleaford Solo Club; " Good audience interaction- foot tappers galore! Colourful repertoire Very prompt, reliable, friendly and professional CP Stewart, Ravenshead Village Hall Very entertaining Very professional and friendly, giving time to the audience during the break and at the end of the performance "

S Evans, East Markham Village Hall; "Excellent performers, very friendly and chatty. Music was unbelievable. An inspiration to all. A night the village will not forget. Mary Smith, Scotton Village Hall Exhilarating, toe-tapping, delightful musical entertainment. Audience appreciated Chris Haigh's introductions to the music- friendly, to the point, often amusing. "

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